-UL Faculty Association Demands
By: G Bennie Bravo Johnson I
Another uncertainty has beclouded the resumption of classes at the University of Liberia, as the faculty association at the University has demanded the appointment of the University’s new president before classes resume.
In a resolution signed Friday, November 1, 2024, on the FendallCampus of the University of Liberia, the association called on the Liberian leader to deliver on his promise to appoint a new president.
They added that the “Presidential Search Committee” recommendations from the vetting committee are completed and awaiting the president’s action. The body says that the mandate of the Acting President has elapsed.
Therefore, the need for a new president is essential for the running of academic activities at the University.
“Wherefore, in view of the foregoing, the members of ULFA resolved on the following;
That the Visitor to the University his Excellency President Boakai made good his promise to the University by appointing a new President in line with the recommendations of the “Presidential Search committee” because recommendations from the vetting committee are completed and awaiting the president’s action. And that the mandate of the Acting President has elapsed. That the faculty awaits the appointment of the new President before resuming classes,” resolution states.
Meanwhile, the University Faculty Association further called on the visitor to the University to settle the outstanding issues in the June 14, 2024 Resolution. The faculty stated before the resumption of classes, that all arrears and current salaries of Part-Time faculty must be settled without any precondition; andthat the longstanding promotion of faculty members must be implemented without any precondition.
The preconditions continued to state that all retroactive payments of staff members must be settled without any precondition and that all disparities of staff be settled without further delays; as well as, that the bus for Sinje be provided as agreed.
The resolution continued by adding that the classrooms on all campuses and the environment be given a facelift. That a comprehensive audit of the UL be executed; and that a comprehensive credentials audit be executed. The faculty concluded by calling on the government to ignite discussion around implementing the remaining salary increment for faculty and staff.
